Mike's Master Classes

Art of Solo Guitar - Part II

Paul Bollenback·
5.0 (1 review)·BEGINNER·Chord Melody·1 lesson
$29.95
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Master the art of spontaneous solo guitar performance with renowned jazz guitarist Paul Bollenback in this advanced workshop focused on real-world improvisation and groove development. While many guitarists spend years perfecting written arrangements, this course takes a different approach—teaching you to "fly by the seat of your pants" with the confidence and skill of a seasoned professional. Bollenback shares essential techniques for maintaining rock-solid time without relying on metronomes or backing tracks. You'll explore the critical relationship between foot-tapping and groove, learning to internalize swing feel through practical exercises with quarter notes, eighth notes, and triplets. Discover how to navigate the subtle differences between straight and swung eighth notes, finding that sweet spot that makes your playing dance rather than march. This isn't about memorizing arrangements—it's about developing the improvisational skills that separate working musicians from hobbyists. Learn to maintain consistent tempo while improvising, use rhythmic groupings to enhance your solo performances, and develop the internal clock that keeps your playing in the pocket even when fatigue or memory lapses threaten to derail a performance. Drawing from his extensive experience and referencing masters like Joe Pass, Gene Bertoncini, and Howard Alden, Bollenback demonstrates how to balance spontaneity with musical sophistication. Perfect for intermediate to advanced players who want to move beyond prepared pieces and develop the confidence to create compelling solo guitar performances in any situation.

Course Content

Lessons

  • Art of Solo Guitar - Part II5520

Reviews & Ratings

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james seaberry
Verified Purchase
11/1/2007

Simply outstanding class. I recommend this series to everyone. The materials were clear and very helpful; he explains everything he does thoroughly, and he has ideas that you don't get often elsewhere. Well worth the investment.

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About the instructor

Paul Bollenback →
Paul Bollenback is not only a masterful performer, but a down-to-earth instructor. His approach to jazz is both inspiring yet attainable. Guitar master George Benson, a long-time supporter, has described Bollenback’s work as ". . .bona-fide playing, unambiguous, up-front and powerful," calling him “a versatile dynamo on guitar. His approach to jazz and blues has a uniqueness unto itself . . ..”. That comment has special resonance in that Bollenback counts Benson high among his wide range of influences; these also include Carlos Santana, Wes Montgomery, Kenny Burrell, John McLaughlin, Johnny Winter, and Jimi Hendrix (among guitarists), as well as such giants of improvisation and composition as pianists Herbie Hancock and Bill Evans, and saxophonists Wayne Shorter and John Coltrane.